Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions, characterized by maculopapular to exfoliative dermatitis, urticaria, angioedema, and rarely, anaphylaxis may occur with all antibacterial agents, but especially with the β-lactams.^{37,61,70,77,105} Allergic reaction to the penicillins is more likely to occur in individuals with sensitivity to multiple allergens and in those with asthma; and patients with a history of allergy to the penicillins have experienced allergic reactions when treated with cephalosporins. Rare instances of erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome have been reported with clindamycin and azithromycin.^70,77